Rangers early team news v Celtic: James Tavernier ruled out, another a big doubt
Philippe Clement has confirmed James Tavernier will not be available for Rangers in their clash against Celtic, while Leon Balogun is also unlikely.
After making seven changes against Motherwell on Sunday (29 December), citing tiredness and risk of injury as the reason, Clement was the brunt of plenty of criticism as his side drew 2-2.
Therefore, the pressure is now on the Belgian to have his team fit and firing in the Old Firm Derby on Thursday (2 December) to get a result in a game that could mark the end of his time at Ibrox.
However, the boss has already confirmed some omissions from the squad as he said in his pre-match press conference: “A small chance Leon Balogun can return, we will see after his individual work.
“Tavernier has picked up an injury, we took a scan and there is clear damage and will be out for a few weeks.”
Philippe Clement needs Rangers win to save his job
After a poor performance against Motherwell, the Gers were lucky to come away with a point after their opponents had two goals disallowed and therefore, all eyes are on Clement heading into the game against Celtic.
It will be no surprise to see the 50-year-old make more changes to his starting line-up as it is crucial he has his strongest team out in the hope of getting revenge over their rivals for their loss in the League Cup final.
Furthermore, for the manager himself, this result will be even more crucial as a defeat may prompt the hierarchy at Ibrox to make changes and dismiss Clement from his duties heading into the second half of the campaign.
With this in mind, having Tavernier unavailable for a number of weeks is far from ideal as a solid figure in the side this term and while Balogun isn’t as bad as initially feared, the boss could be effected by not having the maximum number of players at his disposal.
In other Rangers news, the Gers have been torn to shreds after their performance against Motherwell.
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